For a strong and effective preparation strategy, here is the detailed and SEO-optimized exam pattern for the Punjab and Sind Bank Specialist Officer (SO) Recruitment 2025.
The selection process for the Punjab and Sind Bank SO post (e.g., Credit Manager, Agriculture Manager) typically involves two main stages: an Online Written Test followed by a Personal Interview.
Punjab and Sind Bank SO Exam Pattern 2025: Key Highlights
The Online Written Examination is the first and most crucial stage. Candidates must clear both the sectional and overall cut-off marks to be shortlisted for the interview.
| Particulars | Details |
| Exam Mode | Online (Computer Based Test) |
| Total Questions | 100 |
| Total Marks | 100 |
| Total Duration | 105 Minutes (1 hour 45 minutes) |
| Question Type | Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs) |
| Negative Marking | Yes, 0.25 marks deducted for each incorrect answer. |
| Medium of Exam | English and Hindi (except the English Language section) |
Punjab and Sind Bank SO Exam Detailed Section-wise Exam Structure
The Online Written Test is divided into three sections with specific time limits for each:
| S. No. | Name of Test | No. of Questions | Maximum Marks | Time Allotted |
| 1. | English Language | 20 | 20 | 15 Minutes |
| 2. | General Awareness | 20 | 20 | 30 Minutes |
| 3. | Professional Knowledge (Domain-Specific) | 60 | 60 | 60 Minutes |
| Total | 100 | 100 | 105 Minutes |
Crucial Point: The Professional Knowledge section carries the highest weightage (60% of the total marks), making it the most significant area for candidates to focus on. The syllabus for this section is specific to the post you apply for (e.g., Credit Manager, Agriculture Manager, etc.).
Minimum Qualifying Marks (Cut-Off)
Candidates must meet the following minimum qualifying criteria in the written test:
| Category | Minimum Qualifying Marks (in each section) | Minimum Qualifying Marks (Overall) |
| General / EWS | $40\%$ | Determined by the Bank |
| Reserved Categories (SC/ST/OBC/PwBD) | $35\%$ | Determined by the Bank |
Punjab and Sind Bank SO Selection Process 2025
The final selection is based on a combined score from the Written Test and the Personal Interview, with a defined weightage for each stage.
1. Online Written Test (Weightage: 70%)
- The online examination score is normalized and given a 70% weightage in the final merit list preparation.
- The raw marks obtained out of 100 in the written test are converted to a score out of 70.
2. Personal Interview (Weightage: 30%)
- Candidates shortlisted from the written test are called for a Personal Interview, usually conducted at designated centers.
- The interview assesses professional knowledge, communication skills, personality, and general suitability for the post.
- The interview score is given a 30% weightage in the final merit list preparation.
3. Final Merit List
- The Final Merit List is prepared by aggregating the converted scores from the Online Written Test (70% weightage) and the Personal Interview (30% weightage).
- Candidates are selected strictly based on their rank in this final merit list and the number of vacancies announced.
